Obituary of Dave Craig

Friend to all, David “Dave” Gerald Craig, passed away March 31, 2021 at the age of 66, after bravely facing a cancer diagnosis in January. Dave, born to Jerry and Darlene Craig on June 12, 1954, is loved dearly by his wife Robin; children Kelly Graham, Mindy Acker and her husband Dustin, Casey Craig and his wife Lindsay, and is also survived by his 10 grand-children Nia, Jayson, Mason, Denae, Kellan, Hartley, Keagan, Keira, Corbin, and Malia; brother Robert Craig and his wife Kim. Dave was raised in Washougal and graduated from Washougal High School in 1972 and married his school sweetheart Robin December 2, 1972. Dave was a hard worker, and at 18, became one of Safeway’s youngest produce managers. In 1978 Dave began to co-own Camas Hilltop market, a friendly grocery store where customers could grab their groceries and hang around for a warm smile and conversation. In 1996 Dave diligently learned the plumbing trade and worked over 5000 hours to earn his journeyman license in a short 1 ½ years. He loved working side-by-side with his son Casey at Casey’s company, Craig’s Plumbing Solutions, after teaching his son the plumbing trade as well. Dave loved his family, rock and roll, and having a good time. Dave coached youth soccer, baseball, and softball, and high school softball, always supporting his children and community. Dave spent time with his family camping, riding in the dunes, relaxing by the pool, or lending a helping hand whenever it was needed. Dave loved music and it was always playing and he was always singing along. Dave had many self-taught skills including playing the bass guitar. In school Dave played in his first band called “Green Plaid Dispenser” which performed at the Grange in the late 60’s. Dave played in the Johnny Walker band in the early 90’s and fondly remembered playing at Camas Days , and R.I.P. dances among other venues. Many of Dave’s favorite times revolved around water. He grew up playing in the Columbia River, built a pool in his backyard as a newlywed, enjoyed the ocean on both coasts, traveling to tropical and warm destinations, and hosted the best pool parties. Dave enjoyed camping with his closest friends, spending many weekends with his young family in the Gifford Pinchot Forest area, and also riding in the Oregon Dunes, a favorite vacation destination that he enjoyed yearly. Dave took great care of the people and things he loved. His cars, including his 1st car- a ’64 chevelle, ’68 camaro, ’68 javalin, ’70 Nova, and ’94 White Ford Truck, were always washed and waxed. His yard was always mowed and bushes trimmed. He transformed his family’s home over the years completing many home improvement projects inside and out. Dave loved his flannel shirts, long walks, and reading good book. He enjoyed any time he could spend with friends or family. He loved his wife, his children, grand-children and his friends. He loved life and enjoyed every minute of it. He lived life by the motto “Work Hard, Play Hard”. He saw the best in people. His genuine smile let you know he was happy to see you. He is loved and missed by all who had the opportunity to know him. We will be celebrating Dave’s life April 17th, at Orchard Hills Clubhouse, from 10-4. If it works with your schedule, we suggest staggering according to last name, but if it does not work with you schedule we would happily accept you any time. We will provide snacks and sodas. Overflow parking will be at Washougal High School. Last names A-H 10am-noon, I-P noon-2pm, Q-Z 2pm-4pm. Masks required indoors.